At MacIntyre, we know that talking about periods and menopause isn’t always easy, but we also know it’s important.
Working with people with lived experience, staff, and families across MacIntyre, we are delighted to share a new set of Makaton Signing Cards and Easy Read resources. These tools are designed to help make conversations around periods and menopause clearer, more comfortable, and more accessible.
The cards were created with Jess, one of our Experts by Experience, and the Easy Reads were developed with support from the MacIntyre Creators and Advisors, who have helped make sure the information feels respectful and useful.
Rachel Furniss, one of the Best Practice Facilitators, explains:
“I remember trying to explain period products to my 12-year-old daughter and her friends. I realised just how confusing the information leaflets can be—even for adults! It made me want to create something clear and simple, so everyone feels confident and informed.”
And the feedback has already shown that these resources are starting to make a difference:
“I didn’t know that there were so many products out there. I thought there were only pads and tampons. I’ve always struggled with how to use tampons until I got the Easy Read information and went to the workshop with Rachel. Yes, it’s embarrassing—but it’s just a part of growing up.”
These conversations matter. And by working together, we’ve made tools that can help more people feel seen, supported, and included.
You can find the Easy Read guide here, and download the Makaton Signing Cards here.
